A Backgrounder for Prospective Destination Communities by Ted Manning, President Tourisk Inc. 2006

The cruise ship industry is one of the largest components of tourism and is experiencing rapid growth. Cruise lines are seeking new routes and ports. Each year, the average size of ships is larger, with many carrying more than 2000 passengers and 1000 crew. At the same time, smaller ships (and some larger ones) are able to bring tourists to new ports which were previously inaccessible or off the beaten path. While there are clearly benefits to be gained from cruise ship visits, there are also issues which destinations must consider, to optimize benefits and reduce negative impacts of cruise ship visits.

Destinations are not equal. The unique situation of each destination dictates how attractive it is likely to be to a cruise line. This also relates directly to the leverage that a destination may have in dealings with potential and current cruise operators.

Key issues for destinations:

1. DecidingtoSeekCruiseTourism

Cruise visits seem to have considerable potential as a source of economic development for coastal communities. The initial reaction is therefore likely to be positive – as with other tourism proposals, when cruise visits are proposed. But, as